The county sheriff, Wes Hayden, and his son, David Hayden, deal with unexpected and shocking events throughout Montana 1948 by Larry Watson. The post WWII story tells of a powerful family who lives in a small town in upstate Montana. The development of characters can be centered around their ethical dilemmas, and how they deal with them. The major climax occurs when Frank, a doctor, the uncle of David, and brother of Wes, is found to have taken advantage of a young Indian housekeeper when she is sick. The father and son each have to deal with the incidents that roll into their lives.

David, a 12 year old boy, is stuck between what is right and his love for his admirable uncle Frank. After the Hayden family finds out about Frank using his occupation for sexual harassment, the family is in a state of confusion. At this point, the...